In a candid revelation, Carlton footballer Elijah Hollands has opened up about his struggle with mental health, dispelling rumors of a party lifestyle and highlighting a much lonelier battle. As social media buzzed with speculation, the reality was far from glamorous. Hollands was grappling with mental health issues that led him to seek solace in alcohol, a challenge he faced largely in isolation.
“Getting the support back from the club and from family and friends, saying it was the right thing to do, gave me some comfort and some reassurance that I was doing the right thing, and I should attack it with 100 percent [effort],” Hollands shared, reflecting on his journey.
The Struggle Behind the Scenes
Hollands’ mental health began to deteriorate towards the end of last year, leading him to distance himself from key support networks. By January, he had confided in key leaders within the football department about his struggles. However, by March, as the season commenced, it was evident that he was not yet on top of his mental health challenges.
Both Hollands and Carlton coach Michael Voss decided that a break was necessary. Despite assumptions about his lifestyle following his trade from the Gold Coast, the reality was a personal battle with alcohol, a struggle compounded by family history.
“In some of the darker times, I turned to alcohol to cope with some of the stresses I had been putting myself under, and the mental fatigue and battles I had been going through,” Hollands admitted.
A Turning Point
Hollands hoped that a short break would serve as a circuit breaker, allowing him to address the underlying issues contributing to his mental health struggles. Watching his team, the Blues, lose their first three games from the sidelines was a challenging experience, filled with feelings of guilt and letting down his teammates.
Returning to the field, Hollands initially found success, but a game against the Sydney Swans proved to be a turning point. During the match, he experienced a panic attack, a first for him on the field, as his mental health struggles manifested in his performance.
“I remember just feeling like a complete pedestrian out there. In the last quarter I came off the ground and I just could not breathe,” Hollands recounted.
The Road to Recovery
Following this incident, Hollands and the club agreed on the need for a “serious reset.” He spent four weeks at a mental health retreat, working with experts to understand his challenges and develop strategies for lasting change. This period proved transformative.
“It has been the best thing possible for me – I learned so much during that time. I came out of that, I guess, being myself again,” Hollands said.
Emerging from the retreat, Hollands reintegrated into his life and returned to the club, aiming to play a couple of VFL matches before the season’s end. His performance in these games demonstrated that his talent remained intact.
Looking Ahead
Despite the club suggesting he explore other options, Hollands remains grateful for the support he received during his lowest moments. He is committed to maintaining his mental health and has abstained from alcohol since his mid-season reset.
“I know I can turn this into a really positive learning experience for me and that, whatever is next for me, I am extremely committed to and looking forward to whatever opportunity may pop up,” Hollands expressed.
As Hollands continues his journey, he remains focused on the processes that have helped him recover, ready to embrace future opportunities with a renewed sense of purpose and resilience.
